The island of Maui is often associated with the Hawaiian phrase, no ka oi, 'the best,' for good reason: It's very special.
In fact, many repeat visitors to Hawaii go straight to Maui. The island is larger than Oahu, but the population is much smaller. Haleakala, with its dramatic caldera at 10,000-feet-plus elevation, towers over the east end of the island. The road to Hana and the pools at Kipahulu offer views of indescribable tropical beauty. It's hard to imagine how exceptional the sandy beaches at Kihei, Wailea, Makena and Kaanapali are, each with world-class resorts and accommodations.
The west Maui mountains with their deep-cut canyons give the island its nickname, and you won't want to miss Iao Valley. Then there's the fun of exploring the colorful boutiques at Paia, checking out the windsurfers at Ho'okipa or whale-watching in season at Lahaina, which offers its own unique ambiance and wide range of shops.
Come to Maui, and soon enough you'll both be saying no ka oi.